The NIF is administered by Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development. Some of the planned improvements will include:

removing the pea gravel and adding a layer of stone dust

adding 10 industrial-strength metal benches

adding 10 tree boxes for plantings, which will add more shade

replacing the gravelly entrance to both gates and vestibules with concrete landings

relocating several of the dog poop receptacles

installing a bigger, better message board for community announcements.

The Shaw Dog Park is closed for a few days this week while resurfacing is done. It will reopen and stay open for the rest of the renovations. (Luis Gomez Photos)

The park is currently closed for a few days while regrading of the surfaces is taking place. Once that work is complete, no other closures are anticipated. Work is scheduled to be completed in September.

George Kassouf, president of the Shaw Dog Park Association, a non-profit corporation, “The improvements are primarily based on suggestions we sought from the members last January — better surface, more shade and more benches. We hope these amenities will make the park a more pleasant experience for dogs and dog owners alike, as well benefit the entire community.”

Volunteer dog owners oversee the maintenance, fund park improvements and operating expenses (e.g., poop bags, bin liners, sanitary spray), and enforce the operating rules. When the 15,000-square foot park opened in November 2008 it was the first legal dog park in the city. Regular monthly meetings are usually held the third Wednesday of each month at the Hotel Helix on Rhode Island Avenue NW